Cebu welcomes American trade missions

The grand ballroom of the Cebu Marriott Hotel, a favorite address for entrepreneurs, corporate executives and mega traders visiting the Queen City of the South, was the business venue for this year’s Direct from USA 2002 Catalog and Products Exhibit.

Recently launched by United States Embassy commercial counsel David Fulton and supported by the Cebu chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, the bursting-with-activity exhibition showcased close to 250 American entities currently based in the Philippines.

Present at the event were specialists who readily assisted potential business partners with their queries and provided market information, company profiles and business contacts. They likewise extended invitations to the members of the Cebuano trade and industry community to be their sales representatives, distributors and dealers. Some even succeeded in forging licensing agreements.

US consular agent John Domingo hosted a cocktail reception with American Embassy deputy chief of mission Joseph Mussomeli, a career diplomat who has served in various capacities in several posts such as Cairo, Egypt, Rabat, Morocco and Manama, Bahrain.

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Meanwhile, when all one hears are negative statements regarding the exodus of foreign companies from our country, an American organization, Lexmark International, recently opened a subsidiary in Cebu, the Lexmark Research and Development Corp.

More than just a printer company, the Cebu office that represents the Asia-Pacific region, develops, manufactures and markets printing solutions for major enterprises and home offices. They specialize in software, such as printer drivers and network adopters. Their key function is to develop printer and printer-related products that are then launched around the world.

This milestone was celebrated with a formal dinner hosted by Stan Combs and John Zbrozek, president/CEO and vice president, respectively, at the ballroom of the Ayala Sports Club. PEZA director Lilia de Lima was guest of honor and keynote speaker.

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Anything Timber, the newest kitchen specialist in town, with products that offer design flexibility and ease of use, in addition to simply looking good and great, recently opened its doors to Cebuanos who may wish to update or upgrade their cocina de la ama de casa.

During a recent visit, we learned Anything Timber uses a variety of eco-friendly timber imported from America, Europe and Asia. They also utilize a choice selection of international standard accessories, such as wood finishes and new color stains. Though the English country look remains popular, there is renewed interest in designs that give prominence to simple lines and quality craftsmanship.

So if you wish to have a kitchen you have always dreamt about, where your individual taste and preference are matched with unique and elegant touch for utmost satisfaction, drop by the specialist, Anything Timber. The choices are awesome.